THARAKA NITHI, Kenya — Detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) have arrested five suspects in connection with a brutal attack in Tharaka Nithi County that left two people dead and two others seriously injured.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the incident occurred on the night of May 21, 2026, in Tonto Village, Kamwimbi Location, when an armed gang stormed a homestead and carried out a deadly assault.
Investigators say the attackers, armed with firearms and crude weapons, descended on the compound at about 9 p.m., unleashing violence that claimed the lives of two family members.
Victims Killed in Night Attack
Preliminary investigations indicate that the assailants first attacked a man at the entrance of the homestead, fatally injuring him before proceeding deeper into the compound.
The gang reportedly fired several shots into the air, apparently to intimidate residents and prevent intervention from neighbours.
Detectives say the attackers later assaulted and killed an elderly woman within the compound.
Two additional victims sustained serious injuries during the incident and were rushed to hospital for emergency treatment.
Intelligence-Led Probe Leads to Arrests
Following the attack, the case was taken over by detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, who launched an intensive intelligence-led investigation.
According to the DCI, forensic analysis and intelligence gathering played a critical role in identifying individuals believed to have participated in planning and executing the attack.
A series of operations conducted between June 4 and June 8 resulted in the arrest of five suspects identified as Benson Mugendi Patrick, Kibet Collins Kemboi, Wilson Kinyua Nyaga, Josphat Nyaga Njue, and Joseph Kinyua Njeru, also known as Maruu.
Investigators Pursuing More Suspects
The DCI said preliminary findings point to what investigators describe as a carefully coordinated criminal conspiracy.
“Preliminary investigations reveal a meticulously planned criminal conspiracy. Forensic analysis and intelligence reports have proven crucial in unravelling this chilling plot,” the agency said.
The five suspects remain in police custody as detectives complete investigations and prepare to present them before court.
Authorities indicated that efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest additional individuals believed to have been involved in the attack.
Search for Justice Continues
The killings have shocked residents of Tharaka Nithi, with investigators treating the matter as a serious organised criminal offence.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all those responsible for the deaths are brought to justice.
“The DCI is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every individual involved in these brutal killings is identified, arrested, and brought to justice,” the agency stated.
The suspects are expected to be arraigned once investigations are completed and charges formally preferred against them. Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the attack, saying inquiries remain active.
